perfidy

Loyal Reader #0016(EDog) is participating in a New Times Fiction Contest that restricts the writer to 55 words or less per story. 55 words from setup to punchline - that's tough, and the New Times' rules are fairly restritive as well; twenty-eight counts as two words, as does "screw'em." The best such stories will get published on real actual paper and sent to real actual readers who will read your words - on paper! Trust me when I say this is a delicious thrill orders of magnitude greater than blogging.

The Ministry hereby encourages all readers to consider participation. Your compliance is appreciated; indeed, it is expected.

Here is one of EDog's submissions for your entertainment and edification.

Straight Line, No Chaser by Ian Healy

It was the night Jeremy Stain played the Dove. She stood by the bar, looking available.

“I’m Stan,” I smiled.

“Ella.”

“Want to get out of here?”

“Can’t. Waiting for someone.”

“Buy you a drink?”

“Got one, thanks.”

I paused, considering my next move. “Want to make out in the girls’ bathroom?”

“Ok.” She grinned.